A lot of truth being written in this here post. Government employees don’t give a shit about the bottom line because it doesn’t affect their pay. Until now I suppose.
Apparently, you do not know what you are talking about. Government employees care greatly that the bottom line absolutely affects wages and benefits. They are reminded of this fact each time a new contract is negotiated.
I am a retired public employee with 30 years of employment with the same employer. In addition, I was our Chapter President (shop steward) for over twelve years and bargained multiple contracts with my employer.
Whenever there is a budget shortfall, there are layoffs. Reduced budgets have a negative impact on employee/employer contract renewal at the bargaining table. Budget shortfalls are management's excuse for little or no increases in salary, with the exception of administrators who somehow find ways to increase their own salaries, benefits and job security. Government employers operate no differently than large industry private employers.
Public employees’ salaries are often lower than in the private sector, although benefits may be better. Not every employee qualifies for benefits, for example part-time employees.